Tehran International Film Festival was an annual festival that was held in Iran before the Iranian Revolution.
The Tehran International Film Festival was a prestigious, high-profile "Class A" event, ranking alongside festivals such as; Cannes, Cairo and Venice. Held annually in December before the 1979 Revolution, it bridged international cinema with the burgeoning Iranian New Wave, hosting guests such as Princess Anne and showcasing major international films alongside local work.
The festival ran through the 1970s, with documented editions such as the 2nd in 1973 and 3rd in 1974. It was recognized by the International Federation of Film Producers Association (FIAPF). Associated with glamorous, lavish, and high-budget events, often involving international celebrities.
It operated during a time of rapid cultural development in Iran, often linked with the "Iranian New Wave" of filmmaking. The festival was covered in specialized Persian cinema journals like Cinema, which featured extensive news, photos, and gossip about both local and American stars.
In this festival, selected films of Iranian cinema competed alongside works from other countries.
The first period of the festival was held in 1973 and the last period (the sixth period) was held in 1977, which was closed after the revolution and after 4 years, it was held simultaneously with the Fajr International Film Festival.
Tehran International Film Festival was held with the support of Farah Pahlavi's special office.